Google Cloud VP explains why everyone from big businesses to start-ups can benefit from the AI age (www.techradar.com)

Google Cloud is emphasizing the transformative potential of AI for businesses of all sizes, as highlighted by Maureen Costello, VP for the UK, Ireland, and Sub-Saharan Africa, during her keynote at the Google Cloud Summit London 2026. Costello noted a significant shift from using AI for simple tasks to the emergence of "agentic enterprises," where complex processes are carried out autonomously by AI agents. This evolution underscores the importance of having reliable cloud service partners, with Google Cloud actively engaging in expanded partnerships, including a major collaboration with HSBC for over 200 use cases and an initiative with the UK government to streamline planning applications using AI. The implications for the AI/ML community are profound, as the focus now shifts toward demonstrating tangible ROI from AI integrations in core business processes. Costello mentioned that AI has the potential to boost productivity by 20% for small businesses, essentially adding a day back into their week. Google is also committed to upskilling approximately 100,000 public servants in AI applications, showcasing the company’s investment in fostering an innovative ecosystem, particularly within the UK, which is emerging as a global leader in AI research and development.